The Model Number Location Depends on Your Mixer Type

The model number on a KitchenAid mixer is almost always on a sticker or plate attached to the back or underside of the unit. For stand mixers, check the back panel near the motor housing — you'll see a white or silver label with printed text. For hand mixers, flip the unit over and look on the bottom, usually near where the cord enters the handle. The label will show a series of letters and numbers starting with "KSM" (for stand mixers) or "KHM" (for hand mixers), followed by additional digits.

The exact placement varies slightly between models and production years, but manufacturers always put the label somewhere you can access without disassembling the mixer. If you can't find it on the back or bottom, check inside the bowl on stand mixers — some older models have a label on the interior rim.

Key Takeaways

  • Stand mixer model numbers are printed on a sticker on the back panel near the motor, usually at eye level when the mixer sits on your counter.
  • Hand mixer model numbers appear on the bottom of the handle, visible when you flip the mixer upside down.
  • The model number always starts with "KSM" or "KHM" followed by numbers and sometimes letters.
  • Write down the full model number before contacting customer service or ordering replacement parts, since different models use different attachments.

How to Read the Label Once You Find It

Once you locate the sticker, the model number is the first line of text you'll see. It looks like this: KSM150PS or KHM512ER. The letters tell you the mixer type (KSM = stand mixer, KHM = hand mixer), and the numbers identify the specific model. You may also see a serial number on the same label — that's different from the model number and is used to track individual units for warranty purposes.

Take a photo of the entire label with your phone. This gives you a backup if the sticker fades or peels, and you'll have it handy if you need to contact KitchenAid support or order parts online. Many retailers and parts suppliers ask for the model number before showing you compatible bowls, beaters, or other accessories.

Stand Mixer Label Locations by Size

KitchenAid makes stand mixers in several sizes, and the label location is consistent within each category. On the classic 5-quart and 6-quart models (the most common home sizes), the label is on the back of the mixer body, roughly in the middle of the panel. On the smaller 3.5-quart models, the label is in the same spot but lower, since the overall unit is more compact.

On commercial or NSF-certified models, the label may be on the side panel instead of the back. If you have an older KitchenAid mixer from the 1980s or 1990s, the label might be smaller or use a different format, but it will still be on the back or bottom of the unit. The label material is usually plastic or foil, so it can fade if exposed to heat or moisture — keep your mixer away from steam and direct sunlight to preserve it.

What to Do If the Label Is Missing or Unreadable

If the sticker has peeled off or the text has faded completely, you can still identify your mixer by its appearance and features. Note the color (white, red, black, or specialty finishes), the bowl size if you know it, and any distinctive features like the type of motor housing or handle design. Contact KitchenAid customer service with a photo of your mixer, and they can often identify the model based on these details.

You can also check your original purchase receipt or warranty paperwork — the model number is usually printed there. If you bought the mixer as a gift and don't have the receipt, check your email for an order confirmation from the retailer. As a last resort, you can measure the bowl capacity by filling it with water and pouring it into a measuring cup; KitchenAid stand mixers come in 3.5-quart, 5-quart, and 6-quart sizes, and knowing the capacity narrows down the model significantly.

Why You Need the Model Number

The model number tells you which attachments, bowls, and replacement parts will fit your mixer. A 5-quart bowl won't fit a 3.5-quart stand mixer, and a coated bowl designed for one model may not work with another. If you're ordering a replacement beater, whip, dough hook, or splash guard online, the retailer will ask for the model number to may support you get the right part.

The model number is also essential if you need to contact KitchenAid support about a problem or warranty claim. It tells the support team which version of the motor you have, what voltage it runs on, and what the expected performance should be. Without it, they may not be able to troubleshoot effectively or determine whether your mixer is still under warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the model number the same as the serial number?

No. The model number identifies the type and size of mixer (like KSM150PS), while the serial number is unique to your individual unit and is used for warranty registration and tracking. Both appear on the same label, but they serve different purposes. The model number is what you need for parts and compatibility questions.

Can I find the model number online if I bought my mixer used?

If you know the color and approximate age of the mixer, you can browse KitchenAid's product pages or contact their customer service with a photo. They maintain records of past models and can often identify yours visually. You can also check the original box if you still have it — the model number is printed on the packaging.

What if my mixer has a label but I can't read the text?

Try wiping the label gently with a slightly damp cloth to remove dust or dried-on food. If the text is still faint, take a photo with your phone's camera and zoom in on the image — sometimes the digital image is clearer than what you see with your eyes. If the label is completely worn away, contact KitchenAid with a photo of your mixer and they can help identify it.

Do all KitchenAid mixers have the label in the same place?

Stand mixers have the label on the back or side panel, while hand mixers have it on the bottom. Within each category, the location is consistent, though older models may have slightly different label placement. If you can't find it on the back or bottom, check the interior of the bowl or contact KitchenAid with a photo.